Former England captain David Gower said that the legendary duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not play the 2027 ODI World Cup. They have been added to India’s ODI squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. But, Shubman Gill was appointed the ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma as well.

When asked about them in an interview with the Cricket Predicta, Gower said (via IANS), “I don’t see Virat and Rohit playing in the 2027 World Cup… Pant, yes, despite being injury-prone. The team will rely on young leaders like Gill to shape the future. This is a perfect opportunity for him to step up and guide India to success.”

Meanwhile, former Indian coach Madal Lal backed the decision to appoint Shubman Gill as the full-time ODI captain as well.

“This is an excellent decision by the selectors. Making Gill captain is a forward-looking move. He will be prepared for the World Cup. Now it will be interesting to see how Rohit Sharma performs under Gill’s leadership,” said Lal. “Shubman Gill is an excellent leader and has proven himself in Test cricket. He came very close to breaking Don Bradman’s record. He is the future, and the selectors have made that clear. We must give him time to mature as a captain, especially as we aim for ODI glory in 2027. This series will provide him with the necessary exposure.”